Poker Guides

Texas Hold'em Basics

Hand Rankings (Highest to Lowest)

• Royal Flush: A-K-Q-J-10, all same suit
• Straight Flush: Five consecutive cards of same suit
• Four of a Kind: Four cards of same rank
• Full House: Three of a kind + pair
• Flush: Five cards of same suit
• Straight: Five consecutive cards
• Three of a Kind: Three cards of same rank
• Two Pair: Two different pairs
• One Pair: Two cards of same rank
• High Card: No combinations

The Betting Rounds

Pre-Flop: Players receive two hole cards. First betting round begins with the player left of the big blind.

The Flop: Three community cards are revealed. Second betting round begins with the player left of the dealer.

The Turn: A fourth community card is revealed. Third betting round.

The River: A fifth community card is revealed. Final betting round. Players make their best 5-card hand using any combination of their two hole cards and the five community cards.

Basic Strategy Tips

• Play tight early. Only play strong hands (AA, KK, QQ, AK, AQ)
• Position matters. Play more hands when you're in late position
• Don't chase losses. Stick to your bankroll management
• Fold weak hands. It's okay to fold—preservation is key
• Pay attention to opponents. Learn their patterns and tendencies